Sargent Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sargent Dam, located in Ziebach, South Dakota, is a state-regulated Earth dam completed in 1937 with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the TR CHEYENNE river, serves as a vital water resource for the region, with a maximum discharge of 1680 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 75 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, Sargent Dam is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
The WPA-designed Sargent Dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the area, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are under review. In the event of any unforeseen circumstances, the dam's emergency contacts and inundation maps are expected to be updated to meet guidelines and ensure swift response and public safety.
Owned by the state of South Dakota, Sargent Dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, indicating its focus on water storage and regulation. With its historical significance and ongoing operational relevance, the dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century water infrastructure development and continues to serve as a valuable asset for the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHEYENNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
310 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Sargent Dam